Sat Nov 23 02:50:00 UTC 2024: **India on the Brink of Victory as Australia Crumbles in Perth Test**
Perth, Australia – Day two of the first Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test between India and Australia saw the hosts teetering on the brink of a humiliating defeat. Resuming at 67/7, Australia’s innings collapsed to a paltry 104 all out, giving India a 46-run first-innings lead.
India’s pace attack wreaked havoc, with Jasprit Bumrah taking a five-wicket haul (5/35). Debutant Harshit Rana also impressed, claiming two crucial wickets, including that of Mitchell Starc (26), who was caught by Rishabh Pant. Mohammed Siraj also contributed two wickets.
While Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood offered some late resistance, adding a 21-run partnership for the last wicket, their efforts were insufficient to prevent Australia from succumbing to a low score. This total is perilously close to Australia’s lowest ever Test score against India – 83 runs in Melbourne in 1981.
The day also saw a heated exchange between Rana and an unnamed Australian player, details of which are yet to emerge. Further, the debut of Nitish Kumar Reddy, who discussed his inspirational arm tattoos, and the contribution of coach Gautam Gambhir to Reddy’s performance, added side-stories to the match.
The match continues, with India well-positioned for victory. The remaining play promises to be tense as India looks to capitalize on their commanding position.
First Piper 